Keeping your employees motivated and inspired at work can be an issue for any business. The following strategies can help your team be more driven at work.

1. Give each employee individual attention and time

Focusing on the individual is key for individual motivation. Caring for the individual behind the work helps employees feel valued and that their work is being noticed. Speaking to an individual alone when they exceed expectations or deserve praise helps to reinforce good behavior.

2. Offer opportunities for advancement and improvement

Performing the same task everyday with no hope of change can run down even the best employee. Offering opportunities increases employee motivation. Employees do not necessarily need a pay raise or job title change–additional training or education can also be a motivator. Offering new responsibilities for those that participate is another benefit.

3. Lead with example

Be a good example for your employees by providing consistent good examples to inspire your workers. If you set an example of positivity and understanding, your workers will mirror you.

4. Improve your environment

Every company’s culture is different, so there is no right or wrong way to go about improving the office environment. Creating a fancy break room, providing snacks, getting rid of traditional cubicle walls, etc. are all great examples of changing your work environment for the better. It becomes easier to stay motivated when you feel comfortable in your workplace.

5. Socialization is important

Having friends at work builds bonds and a sense of teamwork. Allowing coworkers to casually talk with each other can make being a team feel more organic, for example through team lunches or an office party.

6. Communication

Transparent communication helps employees feel like information is not being hidden from them, that they can speak freely. Open communication with management builds trust and respect to authority. In addition, an “open door policy” gives management a chance to hear about issues with departments they may not be in charge of, which can help nix issues before they become a bigger ones.